When is Vietnamese New Year 2024? The eagerly anticipated Vietnamese New Year, also known as Tết, is set to take place on January 20, 2024. This year’s celebration marks the beginning of the Year of the Snake in the Chinese zodiac, which is expected to bring prosperity and happiness to Vietnamese families across the globe.
The Vietnamese New Year is one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals in Vietnam, as well as in Vietnamese communities worldwide. It is a time for families to gather, honor their ancestors, and welcome the arrival of a new year filled with hope and renewal. Tết is characterized by a variety of customs, traditions, and activities that are deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture.
Preparations for the Vietnamese New Year typically begin weeks in advance, as families strive to clean their homes, decorate with red and gold ornaments, and prepare special dishes for the festive season. One of the most iconic symbols of Tết is the “chum” or “cây nêu,” a bamboo stick adorned with red flags and ornaments, which is believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits.
During the Vietnamese New Year, it is customary for families to visit temples and offer incense to pay homage to their ancestors. Another popular tradition is the giving of “lì xì,” red envelopes containing money, which symbolizes good fortune and blessings for the recipient. Children often receive lì xì from their elders, while adults exchange gifts with friends and family members.
Food plays a significant role in the Vietnamese New Year celebration. A traditional Tết feast typically includes a variety of dishes, such as “bánh chưng” (sticky rice cakes filled with pork and mushrooms), “cải bắp” (stir-fried cabbage), and “xôi gà” (rice porridge with chicken). These dishes are not only delicious but also carry symbolic meanings, representing abundance, health, and happiness.
In addition to the festive meals, the Vietnamese New Year is also a time for entertainment and merriment. Many families and communities organize cultural performances, including traditional music, dance, and theater. Fireworks and dragon dances are also common sights during this time, as they are believed to bring good luck and fortune to the community.
As the Vietnamese New Year approaches, it is a time for reflection and gratitude. It is a celebration of family, culture, and the rich heritage of Vietnam. Whether you are celebrating in Vietnam or in a Vietnamese community abroad, the spirit of Tết is universal, reminding us all to cherish the moments we share with loved ones and to look forward to the promise of a new year.
So, when is Vietnamese New Year 2024? It’s on January 20, and it promises to be a time of joy, togetherness, and the renewal of hope.
